Exploring Solutions to Pinyon and Juniper Infestations through Biomass Field Days

Pinyon and Juniper trees are taking over the rangeland in the western U.S. Currently there are nearly 50 million acres of Pinyon/Juniper woodlands and more acres are being invaded each year. Since World War II, the Forest Service and BLM have worked hard to stop forest fires. These efforts have resulted in more extreme fires today because of all the available fuels. Thinning can reduce or even eliminate the catastrophic aspect of a fire. Proactive management can provide positive use of pinyon/juniper fuels while reducing fire suppression and restoration costs. Utilization of woody biomass generated from forest treatments can provide jobs, stimulate the local economy and ultimately reduce the cost of forest treatments. Southern Utah Biomass, a loosely knit organization of private individuals and government personnel has come together to promote development of harvesting and utilization of pinyon/ juniper. Since October 2010 three field days have been hosted in Southern Utah. Over $7.5 million in equipment has been brought out to demonstrate and exhibit. 715 people from 18 states, Canada and China have attended these field days. The field days demonstrated different methods of harvesting the pinyon/juniper and looked at ways of adding value to the harvested trees. Leading experts in the woody biomass and forestry industry addressed the importance of restoring the woodlands and ways for industry and government to partner together to discuss the problem